Uli Hoeneß backs Per Mertesacker for senior DFB role

Following Germany’s early exit from the World Cup after a penalty shoot‑out loss to Paraguay, the German Football Association (DFB) is facing a restructuring of its leadership. Bayern Munich’s honorary president Uli Hoeneß publicly urged that former 2014 World Cup winner Per Mertesacker be given a senior position within the DFB. Hoeneß highlighted Mertesacker’s eight‑year tenure running Arsenal’s youth academy, his current work as a ZDF pundit, and his “international experience, ability to work with people and genuine passion,” adding that “he would never do it for the money.”

Hoeneß said, “Alles, was Per Mertesacker im Fernsehen sagt, hat Hand und Fuß,” and emphasized that “Genau diese Leute brauchen wir jetzt.” The call comes as DFB chief Hans‑Joachim Watzke and other officials consider replacements for outgoing sports director Andreas Rettig and anticipate Jürgen Klopp’s appointment as national team coach. Hoeneß’s endorsement reflects a broader push for fresh faces to guide German football after the disappointing tournament performance.